Teenagers today don’t shop the way their parents did. They don’t wait for TV ads, flip through magazines, or go window shopping at the mall. Instead, they scroll. They swipe. They watch videos. They trust people they follow online. And they buy things they see on TikTok and Instagram—fast.
1. 97% of teens use at least one social media platform daily
Teenagers are glued to their phones, and nearly all of them are on at least one social platform every single day. That means Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube—these aren’t just apps to them. They’re places they live in.
Why does this matter? Because where teens spend their time is where they get influenced. When they see a cool hoodie on TikTok or a trending gadget in an Instagram Reel, they’re not just watching. They’re thinking about how it fits their life. They’re imagining how they’d look with it. And they’re only one click away from buying it.
For businesses, this stat is a giant wake-up call. If you’re trying to connect with teens through old-school ads or websites, you’re already behind. Your content needs to be right where they are—on their phones, in their feeds, in their world.
For parents, it means something else. Social media is a huge part of how your teen sees themselves, their style, and even their self-worth. Understanding what platforms they use and what they’re seeing can help you guide them without being overbearing. Ask your teen what they saw on TikTok today. You might learn more about their interests than from a full dinner conversation.
The key takeaway: If you’re not in their feed, you’re out of their mind.
2. 62% of teens say they discover new products on Instagram
Instagram isn’t just a place for selfies and memes. For teens, it’s a discovery tool. Over half say they find new things to buy just by scrolling. That means while they’re liking pictures of their friends or watching funny Reels, they’re also spotting sneakers, skincare, gadgets, and clothes they didn’t even know they wanted.
Instagram’s design helps with this. It blends personal posts with ads so smoothly that teens often don’t realize they’re being marketed to. When they see a cool outfit in a post or a makeup tutorial in a story, it feels natural. It doesn’t scream “buy this now!”—but it works.
If you’re a brand trying to reach teens, focus on making your content feel like something a friend would post. No hard sales. Just show your product in a real, everyday setting. Show it being used. Make it part of a lifestyle teens admire.
If you’re a parent, talk to your teen about what they find on Instagram. You don’t need to make them stop using it—but you can help them think about what’s real and what’s just clever advertising. Teach them how to spot sponsored posts and ask questions like, “Do you think they really use that?” or “Would you still want it if no one else saw it?”
Instagram is a huge influence. And it’s not going away. So we need to help teens use it wisely.
3. 48% of teens say they’ve bought something after seeing it on TikTok
TikTok has become one of the most powerful sales machines without even trying to be one. Almost half of teens have bought something just because they saw it in a video. That’s a massive shift in how shopping works. We used to search for what we needed. Now, we see something cool and decide we need it.
What’s driving this? Short, fun videos that make products look exciting and real. It’s not about flashy ads. It’s about someone your age using something, loving it, and showing you why. It’s quick. It’s fun. And it feels personal.
For small businesses or creators, this is gold. You don’t need a big budget. Just a good idea, a decent camera, and a little creativity. Make videos that show how your product works, how it fits into daily life, or what makes it fun. Keep it under 30 seconds and get straight to the point.
For teens, this means learning how to pause before buying. That lip gloss might look amazing in the video, but will it actually work for you? Talk to your teen about the difference between wanting and needing—and the power of waiting 24 hours before hitting “buy.”
TikTok makes shopping easy and exciting. That’s a superpower—but one that needs to be used wisely.
4. 70% of teens trust influencers more than traditional celebrities
When it comes to trust, today’s teens are clear: they believe influencers more than big-name stars. Why? Because influencers feel real. They share their lives, their routines, their wins and fails. They’re not perfect, and that makes them believable.
Celebrities are on red carpets and in magazine covers. Influencers are in their bedrooms, filming videos with their pets. That kind of closeness builds connection—and trust.
This stat shows just how much power micro-influencers have. Even someone with 5,000 followers can move products, start trends, and shape opinions. And for brands, partnering with the right influencer can be way more effective than hiring a big celebrity.
If you’re a business trying to reach teens, forget about the biggest names. Find small creators who match your values and your audience. Let them share their honest experience. That kind of word-of-mouth is priceless.
And if you’re a parent, talk to your teen about who they follow and why. Ask them, “What do you like about this person?” or “Do you think they’re always being honest?” These questions help teens think more critically—without turning the conversation into a lecture.
Influencers are the new trusted voices for Gen Z. And that’s not a bad thing—if we help them see behind the filters.
5. 61% of teens say they are more likely to buy from brands endorsed by influencers
Influencer marketing isn’t just popular—it works. Over half of teens say if someone they follow recommends a product, they’re more likely to buy it. That makes influencers a direct line to a teen’s buying decision.
But here’s the twist: It’s not just about what the influencer says. It’s about how they say it. Teens can tell when someone is being fake. They want honest reviews, not a sales pitch. If an influencer gushes about every single thing, their audience stops trusting them. But when they’re real—when they talk about what they love and what they don’t—that builds loyalty.
So what does this mean for brands? Be careful who you partner with. Don’t just pick someone because they have a big following. Pick people who care about your product and will give a genuine opinion. That’s what makes sales happen.
If you’re a parent, help your teen think through endorsements. Ask, “Do you think they’d use that if they weren’t paid?” Or “Have they ever said they didn’t like a product?” These are great ways to open up smart conversations about online influence.
The influence of influencers is real. But smart buyers know when it’s sincere—and when it’s just an ad.
6. 89% of Gen Z prefer buying from brands that show up on their social feeds
Teen shoppers love to buy from brands they see often—and the place they see them most is on social media. Nearly 9 out of 10 Gen Z shoppers say they prefer buying from brands that pop up in their feed. It’s not just about convenience. It’s about familiarity and trust.
When a brand shows up again and again, it starts to feel like a friend. Teens don’t need to search or go hunting for reviews. If they keep seeing a cute backpack in a funny Reel, or a cool phone case in a dance challenge, it sticks in their mind. And when it’s time to shop, they go with what they know.
For brands, this is an invitation to be consistent. Not just once a month—but every week. Show up in different ways. Behind-the-scenes clips, funny skits, how-to videos—make it feel like your brand is part of their everyday scroll, not just a pop-up ad.
And don’t be afraid to be creative. Trends change fast, and what worked last week may not work today. Keep your content fresh and fun, and make sure it always fits the vibe of the platform.
For parents, this stat shows how social media is shaping your teen’s sense of what’s “normal” or “cool.” Ask them what brands they’ve been seeing lately. You might find out about their style, interests, or even what they’re secretly saving up for.
Teens don’t just want products—they want to feel connected. And showing up in their feed is the fastest way to earn that connection.
7. 55% of teens say TikTok made them buy something they didn’t plan to
Impulse buying isn’t new. But TikTok is turning it into an everyday thing for teens. More than half of them say they’ve bought something just because of a video they saw—without planning to. That’s huge.
Here’s how it works. You’re watching a video of someone showing a cool gadget, or opening a package, or trying on clothes. It’s fast, it’s exciting, and suddenly you’re thinking, “I want that.” Before you know it, you’re clicking the link and checking out. Just like that.
This kind of shopping is emotional. It’s about how something makes you feel in the moment. And TikTok is built to create that exact feeling—over and over again.
For brands, this is a powerful tool. If you can create content that sparks excitement, curiosity, or fun, you can drive sales—even when someone wasn’t looking to buy. Think of TikTok as a digital version of impulse candy at the checkout line. It’s all about grabbing attention at the right time.
For teens, this is where they need to learn about mindful spending. Just because something looks cool for 30 seconds doesn’t mean it’s worth your money. Parents can help by encouraging teens to wait a day before buying. Often, that urge fades—and they’ll know if it’s something they truly want.
Impulse buying feels fun—but teaching teens to pause gives them more control over their choices.
8. 75% of teen TikTok users have interacted with branded content
Three out of four teens who use TikTok have engaged with a brand’s content. That might mean liking a video, leaving a comment, sharing it with friends, or even clicking through to buy. Teens aren’t just watching—they’re joining in.
Why does this matter? Because it shows that TikTok isn’t just entertainment. It’s a two-way street between brands and young shoppers. When a brand posts something fun or interesting, teens respond. They talk about it, tag their friends, and sometimes even recreate it.
For businesses, this means creating content that feels like part of the community. Don’t just post product videos. Make something fun. Add humor. Use music. Follow trends. And always, always talk like a real person—not like a commercial.
If you’re a parent, take this as a chance to connect with your teen. Ask what brands they like on TikTok and why. You might find out that some brands are really creative—or that your teen has a good eye for storytelling and content.
Interaction is the first step toward loyalty. And on TikTok, it starts with content that feels human.
9. 45% of teens follow at least one brand on Instagram
Almost half of all teens follow brands directly on Instagram. That means they’re not just shopping through ads—they’re choosing to stay connected. They want to see what’s new. They want updates. They want style inspiration. They want to be part of the story.
For brands, this stat is powerful. It shows that teens aren’t against being marketed to—they just want it done right. If you’re posting engaging content, replying to comments, and showing your products in fun, helpful ways, teens will happily follow you.
But once they follow, you have to keep them interested. That means a steady stream of content that feels relevant. Use stories to show behind-the-scenes moments. Share real people using your products. Host fun giveaways or polls. Make your page feel like a conversation, not just a catalog.
For teens, following brands is also about self-expression. The pages they follow say something about who they are, what they care about, and how they want to be seen.
Parents can gently guide their teens by talking about which brands they follow and why. It opens the door to conversations about values, money, and media habits.
When done well, following a brand can feel like following a friend. And that’s what keeps teens coming back.
10. 67% of teens say they get fashion ideas from TikTok
TikTok is the new fashion magazine. Two out of three teens say they get their outfit ideas straight from the app. That’s no surprise—TikTok is full of “get ready with me” videos, clothing hauls, and DIY style tips.
What makes it powerful is how real it feels. Instead of models on a runway, teens see people their age trying on clothes in their bedrooms. They see how it looks on different body types, in different lighting, with real reactions. It feels authentic. It feels doable.
For fashion brands, this is a huge opportunity. You don’t need professional photoshoots to connect with teen shoppers. Just work with real creators who love your clothes and know how to style them. Let them show the little details—how the jeans fit, how the shirt feels, how the outfit moves when you walk.
Parents can use this trend to help teens think about personal style. Ask your teen to show you their favorite fashion videos. You might find it’s not about expensive brands—it’s about creativity, color, and self-confidence.
TikTok is teaching teens to see fashion as something fun and personal—not just something to buy, but something to play with.
11. 39% of teens have used Instagram Shop in the last 3 months
Instagram Shop is changing the way teens shop online. Almost 4 in 10 teens have used it in just the last three months. That’s a big deal. It shows that teens are not just browsing—many are actually checking out right there inside the app.
Instagram Shop lets users discover, save, and buy products without ever leaving their feed. That makes the buying process incredibly smooth. Teens see something in a post or story, tap the tag, browse a little, and boom—they’re buying. No switching apps. No extra steps. Just instant shopping.
What makes this powerful is how natural it feels. Instagram blends shopping into the everyday experience of social media. Teens aren’t actively searching for things to buy. They’re discovering things in the middle of doing something else. That creates a feeling of fun and surprise that traditional online shopping doesn’t have.
For businesses, this means your Instagram presence needs to be optimized for shopping. Make sure your posts are tagged with products. Set up your Instagram Shop properly. Use high-quality images, easy-to-read descriptions, and price transparency. Don’t just show the product—show how it’s used, worn, or enjoyed.
For teens, the convenience can sometimes be too tempting. Buying becomes easy, maybe too easy. Parents can help by talking about digital spending and the value of money. Ask questions like, “Is this something you really want?” or “What are you giving up to get this?” These small conversations can make a big impact.
Instagram Shop is fun, fast, and beautifully designed. And for teens, it’s become one more way to explore the world—and themselves—through what they buy.
12. 52% of teen shoppers say short videos influence their buying decisions
Short videos are everywhere. They’re fast, engaging, and easy to understand. And for teens, they’re incredibly persuasive. Over half of teen shoppers say these quick clips help them decide what to buy.
This makes perfect sense. Teens don’t want to read long reviews or browse dozens of pages. They want to see something in action—how it works, how it looks, and what it feels like. A short video shows them all that in just a few seconds.
And it’s not just about looks. A video can show how something fits, how it opens, how it performs. That kind of real-world demo helps build trust. Teens see someone just like them using the product—and that makes them feel more confident in buying it.
For brands, this is a huge opportunity. You don’t need a big production team. Just use your phone and create videos that are short, clear, and fun. Show the product doing what it does best. Add music or captions to make it pop. Keep it under 30 seconds and make sure the first 3 seconds grab attention.
For teens, it’s important to remember that even videos can be edited or staged. That glowing review might be sponsored. That perfect result might be filmed after five tries. Parents can help by showing teens how to spot signs of editing or exaggeration.
Short videos are powerful—but they work best when they show the real thing. And when they do, they help teens make faster, smarter choices.
13. 64% of teens say “aesthetic” product videos help them decide what to buy
“Aesthetic” has become a key word for Gen Z shoppers. It’s not just about the product—it’s about the vibe. About two-thirds of teens say that beautiful, well-designed videos help them make buying decisions. That means visuals matter—big time.
But what does “aesthetic” really mean? It means the video is smooth, pretty, and well-lit. It’s calm music, pleasing colors, nice camera angles. It’s the feeling that the product belongs in a lifestyle they want. Aesthetic videos don’t scream “buy me!”—they say, “look how this fits into your dream life.”
For brands, creating aesthetic videos is no longer optional. It’s essential. You don’t need fancy gear—but you do need a clean setup, good lighting, and a clear style. Make sure the background isn’t cluttered. Choose colors that match your brand. Show the product in everyday use—on a desk, in a backpack, in someone’s hand. Make it feel natural and beautiful at the same time.
Teens are drawn to beauty and simplicity. And when the product is wrapped in that style, it feels more trustworthy—and more desirable.
For parents, this stat is another chance to open up a great discussion. Ask your teen what kinds of videos they like, and what “aesthetic” means to them. It’s a fun way to talk about trends, self-expression, and even how marketers use emotions to sell.
In today’s world, looking good doesn’t just help—it sells.
14. 71% of teens have sent product links to friends via DMs before buying
Buying things isn’t a solo decision anymore—at least not for most teens. More than 70% of them say they send product links to friends in private messages before deciding to buy. That means social commerce is literally social.
Why? Because friends matter. Teens trust their friends more than ads. They want a second opinion. “Do you like this color?” “Should I get this or that?” “Do you think it’s worth the price?” These quick questions help them feel confident about what they’re buying.
For brands, this means your products need to look good even in a tiny preview window. When someone shares a link, it needs to show a strong image, a clear name, and maybe even the price. That’s what helps it stand out in a DM and get a reaction like, “Ooh yes, you have to get this!”
If you’re running a store or business, make your links “shareable.” That means every product should have a simple, clean page that looks good when copied. Also, make it easy to save or send products with one tap.
For parents, this stat is a helpful reminder that shopping is part of social bonding. Instead of seeing it as just spending, look at it as part of how teens talk to each other and stay connected. You can also talk about peer pressure, and how to know when you’re buying for you and not for someone else’s approval.
Shopping isn’t lonely anymore. And for teens, sharing links is just another way to stay close to the people who matter.
15. 43% of teens say they’re more likely to buy when a product goes viral
Virality is the new word-of-mouth. When something explodes on TikTok or Instagram—when everyone is talking about it—teens want to be part of it. Almost half say they’re more likely to buy something just because it’s gone viral.
This makes sense. Viral products feel exciting. They create a sense of urgency—“I need to get this before it sells out.” There’s also social pressure. Teens don’t want to be left out or behind. If all their friends are getting something, they feel like they should too.
For brands, this means your goal isn’t just to sell—but to start conversations. Make content that people want to share. Tap into trends. Use popular sounds. Encourage customers to post their own videos using your product. When the buzz starts, it can spread fast.
But virality can also be risky. Teens might buy something just because it’s popular, not because it fits their style or needs. Parents can help by teaching teens how to ask, “Would I still want this if no one else had it?” That simple question can build stronger, more thoughtful buying habits.
Going viral is powerful—but it’s not the same as being valuable. Helping teens see the difference gives them more control—and more confidence.
16. 58% of Gen Z trust peer reviews more than brand ads
Teenagers aren’t easily fooled. They know when they’re being advertised to—and most of the time, they’re not buying it. Instead, nearly 60% of Gen Z say they trust reviews from other people, especially people their own age, more than ads from brands.
This is huge. It shows that teens want real opinions, not polished promises. They want to hear from people who’ve actually used the product—not someone who’s being paid to smile and read a script. They want to know the good and the bad, and they want it straight.
For brands, this means one thing: your happy customers are your best salespeople. Encourage reviews. Ask buyers to share their experiences, post photos, or record videos. Offer small thank-you gifts for honest feedback—not just 5-star ratings, but real stories.
Make space for those reviews on your website and product pages. Repost good ones on your social channels. Let your future buyers see what real people think. Because when teens hear from other teens, it feels way more real.
For parents, this is a great time to talk about how to read reviews wisely. Show your teen how to spot fake reviews or overly sponsored content. Teach them to look for patterns—if 50 people say the shoes run small, they probably do.
Peer reviews help teens feel informed and empowered. It’s one of the best ways to make smart, confident choices in a world full of flashy marketing.
17. 46% of teens say they’ve bought directly through a link in a TikTok video
Buying through TikTok isn’t just a trend—it’s becoming the norm. Almost half of teens have clicked a product link in a TikTok video and made a purchase. That means the app isn’t just influencing what they want—it’s actually closing the sale.
TikTok makes this easy. The platform often lets creators add a shopping link directly in the video or bio. That means teens don’t have to go searching. They watch the video, get excited, tap the link, and the product is right there. It’s fast. It’s fun. And it feels effortless.
For businesses, this is where social selling really shines. Make sure your TikTok content includes clear links to your products. Use TikTok Shop if available, or link to a mobile-friendly store page. Show your product in action. Keep it playful, short, and natural.
For teens, it’s important to slow things down. Just because something looks amazing in a video doesn’t mean it’s worth the money. Parents can talk to their kids about how TikTok is designed to make shopping feel exciting—and how to pause and think before they tap.
The takeaway: TikTok isn’t just for watching—it’s for shopping. And that’s something both brands and families need to understand.
18. 49% of teen buyers prefer shopping through in-app features like TikTok Shop
Today’s teens love speed and ease. Almost half of them say they prefer buying directly inside the app—whether that’s TikTok Shop, Instagram Checkout, or other in-app tools. These features cut out all the extra steps. No opening new tabs. No long checkout pages. Just quick decisions and fast purchases.
This shows how much convenience matters. Teens want a smooth, simple experience. The fewer clicks, the better. They already trust the app they’re using, so buying within it feels safe and easy.
For brands, this means setting up your shop inside the platforms your audience uses. If you’re not using TikTok Shop or Instagram Checkout yet, you could be missing out on tons of potential sales. Keep your product listings clear, attractive, and mobile-friendly. Think about what makes the buying experience feel “fun” and try to deliver that at every step.
For teens, this convenience can sometimes lead to snap decisions. Parents can help by teaching their kids to set spending limits or use prepaid cards to avoid surprises. Even better, encourage them to make a wish list first, and revisit it after a day or two. That tiny pause can make a huge difference.
In-app shopping is here to stay—and it’s changing how teens think about money, speed, and value.
19. 31% of teens have bought something from a live shopping event
Live shopping might feel new, but it’s quickly gaining traction among younger audiences. Nearly a third of teens say they’ve bought something during a live shopping event. These events mix entertainment with shopping—like watching a fun livestream while also getting deals, tips, and a chance to buy on the spot.
Live shopping works because it creates a sense of urgency and community. Teens see comments from other viewers, watch the product in real time, and feel like they’re part of something. It’s shopping that’s also social and exciting.
For brands, this opens up creative possibilities. Host live demos, Q&A sessions, product launches, or even “behind-the-scenes” tours. Make it interactive. Invite real users, influencers, or creators that teens trust. Offer limited-time discounts or fun freebies to boost engagement.
For parents, this is a great time to talk about how hype can lead to quick buys. Remind your teen to think about whether they really need the item, or if they’re just caught up in the moment. Watching a live show can be fun—but buying should still be thoughtful.
Live shopping combines two things teens love—entertainment and real-time connection. When used well, it’s a powerful tool. When used impulsively, it can lead to regret. The key is balance.
20. 68% of teens are more likely to buy from brands with active social media presence
Today’s teens are more likely to trust and buy from brands that post often and stay active on social media. More than two-thirds say that when a brand is present—commenting, responding, and updating—they feel more confident buying from them.
This makes total sense. An active brand feels alive. It’s like walking into a store where the lights are on, the staff is friendly, and the shelves are stocked. On the flip side, a brand that rarely posts or doesn’t reply to comments feels distant—or even suspicious.
For businesses, this is a reminder to show up every day. Post regularly. Respond to questions and comments. Celebrate your customers. Share new things. Your feed isn’t just about selling—it’s about showing you care.
It’s not about perfection. Teens aren’t looking for the biggest or flashiest brand. They’re looking for personality, consistency, and realness. Even small brands can win big if they build real connections.
Parents can talk to their teens about what makes them feel good—or uneasy—about a brand. Is it how they talk? How fast they reply? What kind of vibe their page gives off?
When a brand feels active and alive, it earns attention—and trust. And that trust turns into loyalty.
21. 40% of teens say they care if a brand uses trending TikTok sounds
Sound is a secret weapon on TikTok. Whether it’s a catchy beat, a funny audio clip, or a popular remix, the right sound can make a video pop. For 40% of teens, it actually matters if a brand uses the latest trending audio. Why? Because it shows the brand gets it.
Teens don’t want to feel like brands are just posting for the sake of it. They want to see that the brand understands the culture, the jokes, and the trends that make TikTok fun. Using trending sounds is one way to signal that. It tells teens: “We speak your language.”
This doesn’t mean every brand needs to chase every trend. But if you’re trying to connect with teens, using popular sounds in a smart and relevant way can boost your chances. It helps your content blend into the platform instead of feeling like an ad. That’s what makes teens more likely to watch—and more likely to buy.
Brands should keep an eye on TikTok’s trending sounds and think about how to use them in a natural way. Don’t just use a sound because it’s hot—use it in a way that fits your product and your message. That’s how you stand out.
For parents, this shows how even small things—like a music clip—can shape how teens feel about a brand. It’s part of the culture they live in every day. Ask your teen what their favorite TikTok sound is right now. You might get a laugh—and a window into what’s trending in their world.
Using trending audio may seem silly from the outside. But for teens, it’s part of how they decide what’s cool, what’s fun, and what’s worth paying attention to.
22. 74% of teens say fun content makes them more likely to remember a brand
If it’s not fun, it’s forgettable. Nearly three-quarters of teens say that fun content makes them remember a brand better. That means jokes, challenges, memes, and creative videos are more than just entertainment—they’re sticky.
Fun content doesn’t have to be silly. It just has to feel real and interesting. It can be a funny skit about a school day, a clever way to show off a product, or a relatable moment turned into a short video. When teens laugh, smile, or think, “that’s so me,” they’re more likely to remember the brand behind the moment.
For brands, this is a reminder to drop the formal tone. Don’t be boring. Get creative. Be human. Think about what your audience likes, and speak to that. Show the product in real life, in real situations, with a little personality. Humor and heart go a long way.
If you’re a business, ask yourself: does this post entertain as much as it informs? If the answer is no, go back and try again.
Parents can help teens talk about why certain brands stick in their heads. Ask them which videos they’ve rewatched or shared recently. What made it memorable? This opens the door to learning how marketing shapes memory—and spending.
Fun content makes marketing feel less like selling. And when teens remember you, they come back.
23. 59% of teens say they’ve asked parents to buy something seen on TikTok
TikTok isn’t just influencing teen wallets—it’s influencing family spending. More than half of teens say they’ve asked a parent to buy something they saw on the app. That could be clothes, gadgets, room decor, or even food. Whatever it is, TikTok sparked the interest.
This tells us that TikTok isn’t just shaping teen taste—it’s shaping family conversations. When a teen is excited about something they’ve seen, they don’t always buy it themselves. Often, they go straight to mom or dad. That makes parents a key part of the social commerce cycle.
For businesses, this is worth remembering. If your product is something a teen would love—but needs a parent’s approval to buy—you need to think about both audiences. Make content that excites teens and reassures parents. Show why it’s fun, but also why it’s safe, useful, or worth the price.
For parents, this stat is a great reminder that TikTok is part of the shopping pipeline. When your teen asks for something “they saw on TikTok,” it’s not just about the item. It’s about being part of something, fitting in, or trying something new. Ask questions that go beyond yes or no. Try “What do you like about it?” or “Do you think you’d use it often?”
When families talk openly about these choices, it helps teens become smarter shoppers—and more confident decision-makers.
24. 53% of teens say they research brands on social media before buying
Before hitting that “buy” button, over half of teens take time to research brands on social media. That means checking the brand’s posts, reading comments, and even seeing how they respond to questions or complaints. Teens don’t just want a good product. They want to know the vibe of the brand.
They’re asking: Is this brand cool? Are people happy with their stuff? Do they care about their customers? Teens are smart. They know that a pretty ad doesn’t always mean a good product. So they look deeper.
For brands, this is a clear message: your social media pages are your storefront. If your last post was months ago, or if people are leaving complaints with no reply, teens will notice—and walk away. Keep your pages alive. Post often. Respond kindly. Be helpful and clear.
Also, make sure your feed matches your brand’s personality. If your product is fun, your content should be fun. If your product is premium, your page should look polished. Teens will decide whether to trust you in seconds—just by scanning your Instagram or TikTok page.
For parents, this shows how smart and curious teens really are when they’re shopping. Ask them how they decide if a brand is trustworthy. Help them spot red flags like fake reviews, overly edited photos, or companies that don’t respond to complaints.
When teens research, they’re not being difficult. They’re being careful. And that’s something we should celebrate.
25. 77% of teens say authenticity in videos makes them trust the brand more
If there’s one thing Gen Z values most, it’s realness. Over three-quarters of teens say that when a brand feels authentic in their videos, they’re more likely to trust them. That means no scripts, no filters, no fakery. Just real people using real products in real life.
This is a big shift from how things used to be. Flashy ads and perfect models used to sell everything. Now, that kind of perfection feels fake. Teens want to see the unboxing, the test, the reaction—even the mistakes. It makes the brand feel human.
For brands, this means lowering the polish and raising the honesty. Don’t just show the final result—show the process. Let people speak in their own words. Share behind-the-scenes clips or user-generated content. Show your product being used in messy, everyday life.
Authenticity doesn’t mean being sloppy—it means being honest. You can still create beautiful videos. But let them feel natural. Don’t over-edit. Don’t overhype. Just show the truth.
For teens, this focus on authenticity builds strong media skills. When they watch and evaluate videos, they’re learning to trust their instincts. Parents can support this by pointing out when something feels “too perfect” and asking, “What do you think is real here?”
Authenticity builds trust—and trust builds loyalty. It’s not a trick. It’s the best long-term strategy any brand can have.’
26. 37% of teens say they trust TikTok ads over traditional online ads
For a growing number of teens, TikTok ads feel more real than the typical ads they see on websites or YouTube. Over a third say they trust ads on TikTok more than traditional digital advertising. That’s a big shift.
Why is that? Because TikTok ads often don’t feel like ads. They look like regular content. Someone is dancing, talking, unpacking something, or showing off how a product works—just like any other video. It blends in. It’s personal. It doesn’t have the hard-sell feel of banner ads or pop-ups.
This kind of content builds trust, especially when it’s done by creators who look, speak, and act like the viewer. Teens feel like they’re watching a friend recommend something, not a company trying to push a product.
For brands, this means learning how to advertise without looking like an ad. Make your promotions feel native to the platform. Use the same video style, language, and trends your audience already loves. Show real results. Tell short stories. Be entertaining first—then informative.
For teens, it’s still important to pause and think. Just because something doesn’t look like an ad doesn’t mean it’s 100% honest. Parents can help by talking about how advertising has changed. Ask, “How can you tell when something is sponsored?” or “What makes this feel more real to you?”
The key takeaway? TikTok has changed the rules. But smart buying still means looking past the surface—and thinking twice.
27. 60% of teens say they’ve bought a product after watching a review by a teen
There’s something powerful about seeing someone your own age review a product. Sixty percent of teens say they’ve made a purchase after watching another teen talk about it. That shows just how much peer opinions matter.
These reviews often happen on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. A teen opens a package, tries something on, uses a gadget, and then talks about what they liked—or didn’t like. It feels like getting advice from a friend, not a stranger. That kind of voice is more relatable than a celebrity or an adult talking in polished marketing speak.
For brands, this is a huge opportunity to build trust. Partner with real teen creators who already love your product. Let them give honest reviews. Even if it’s not perfect, the realness is what builds belief. Teens don’t expect perfection—they want honesty.
And if your brand gets negative feedback? Don’t hide from it. Show how you listen and improve. That kind of transparency earns long-term loyalty.
For parents, this stat is a reminder that who your teen listens to matters. Ask who their favorite reviewers are and what they like about them. You might discover your teen is actually learning critical thinking by comparing reviews, spotting trends, or checking for consistency.
When teens talk to teens about products, it feels natural. And it shapes decisions in a big way.
28. 44% of teens have made impulse purchases on social media
Almost half of teens say they’ve made an impulse buy on social media. That means they saw something, liked it, and bought it right away—without much thought. Social media makes that easy. The content is exciting, the links are right there, and the buying process takes just seconds.
Impulse buying can be fun. It feels exciting in the moment. But it doesn’t always lead to smart choices. Sometimes the product isn’t what you expected. Sometimes you don’t end up using it at all. And sometimes, you feel a little regret afterward.
For brands, this behavior is a double-edged sword. Yes, it can drive quick sales—but it can also hurt your reputation if buyers feel misled or disappointed. The solution? Be clear. Be honest. Don’t oversell. Make sure your product lives up to the hype, and your content reflects the real experience.
For teens, this is a good time to learn financial mindfulness. Parents can support this by helping teens set limits—like waiting 24 hours before making a non-essential purchase. Or using a budget app to track what they’re spending on social media.
The goal isn’t to stop impulse buying completely. It’s to help teens feel good about their purchases—after the excitement wears off.
29. 41% of teen shoppers say product unboxing videos influence their buying
Unboxing videos are simple: someone opens a package and shows what’s inside. But to teens, they’re more than just packaging. They’re part of the excitement. Almost half of teen shoppers say these videos influence what they buy.
Why? Because unboxing videos give a sneak peek into the full experience. They show what the product really looks like, how it’s packaged, and what the first moment of opening feels like. It’s the start of the relationship with the product. And for teens, that first impression really matters.
Watching someone unbox something creates a little bit of envy, a little bit of curiosity, and a lot of emotion. It makes the product feel real—even if you’ve never touched it. And that emotional connection can drive quick decisions.
For brands, packaging is now part of your marketing. Make it fun. Make it pretty. Make it feel like a gift. The better the unboxing experience, the more likely customers will share it—and influence others to buy.
For teens, it’s important to look beyond the excitement. Ask: is the product actually useful? Or is it just packaged well? Parents can join the conversation by watching these videos with their kids and discussing what they liked—and what they didn’t.
Unboxing is more than just opening a box. It’s part of the buying journey—and it starts before the product even arrives.
30. 69% of teens say they’re more likely to buy from brands that reply to comments
When brands reply to comments, teens notice. Almost 7 in 10 say they’re more likely to buy from a brand that engages with them. Why? Because it shows that the brand is listening.
Teens want connection. They want to feel like their voice matters. When they leave a comment and get a reply, it builds trust. It tells them, “Hey, we see you.” That’s a big deal in a world where so much content feels one-sided.
For brands, this is one of the easiest wins. Reply to comments. Say thank you. Answer questions. Make jokes. Be kind. These small interactions add up to a big impression. They show that your brand is active, present, and human.
Even better, responding to comments boosts your visibility on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. It helps your posts reach more people—while also building loyalty with the ones who are already paying attention.
For teens, this kind of interaction makes buying feel more personal. It’s not just about the product—it’s about the relationship.
Parents can encourage healthy conversations by pointing out good brand behavior. “That was a great response—do you think they’ll follow through?” It’s a way to teach teens what good customer service looks like in the digital age.
When brands talk back, they build connection. And in today’s world, connection is everything.
Conclusion
Social commerce isn’t the future. It’s already here.
From viral TikTok trends to Instagram Shops, today’s teens are growing up in a world where shopping and scrolling happen side by side. They’re not just watching—they’re interacting, deciding, and buying. They’re discovering new brands, sharing links with friends, watching unboxings, and clicking “buy” inside apps they use every single day.